IRVINE, Calif. – The Women’s Volleyball Western Consortium proudly announces the addition of the Big 12 Conference to its groundbreaking officiating alliance. The Big 12 joins The Big West, Big Sky, Mountain West and West Coast Conferences. The consortium is referred to as the W5.

With the inclusion of the Big 12, the W5 expands its reach and influence, now representing 59 NCAA Division I programs.

The consortium focuses on the recruitment, training, scheduling and evaluation of officials, promoting consistency and excellence in officiating across its member conferences. The W5 Consortium also coordinates line judge assignments and oversees the challenge review system, creating a unified approach to officiating excellence.

“We proudly welcome the Big 12 to the W5 family,” said Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly. “Their inclusion strengthens our mission to elevate the officiating standard in women’s volleyball across the western region. The Big 12’s tradition of excellence on the court will now be matched by a commitment to top-tier officiating through this collaborative effort.”

“The Big 12 is pleased to join the Women’s Volleyball Western Consortium,” said Lizzie Gomez, Associate Vice President for Olympic Competition for the Big 12 Conference. “We look forward to working alongside our W5 colleagues as we continue to set the standard for women’s volleyball officiating.”

Joan Powell, a respected - NCAA and USAV National retired referee, continues as the W5 Coordinator of Officials, now assuming oversight of officials from The Big West, Mountain West and the newly added Big 12. Margie Ray, double national referee, DII National Coordinator is serving as Deputy Coordinator, and will continue her leadership over WCC and Big Sky officiating operations. Powell and Ray have accrued 15 D1 national championship appearances.

"I am honored and excited to expand the W5 to include the Big 12,” said Powell. “This expansion brings a dynamic and competitive conference into a partnership that is all about collaboration, development and consistency in officiating.”

Ray added, “The Big 12 brings depth and experience that will only enhance our shared goals. With a broader pool of teams, officials and support, our impact will grow even stronger. I'm energized for this next phase.”